Why Do Dogs Froth at the Mouth?

Some dog breeds normally drool a lot.

Dogs froth or foam at the mouth for many reasons, not all of them having to do with illness. If the froth is red or accompanied by other symptoms such as seizures or vomiting, contact a vet immediately.

Breed

Some breeds drool so heavily that the drool resembles foam. One such breed is the bloodhound, which drools in order to keep the folds of the skin moist, which helps to pick up scent.

Hyperactivity

Dogs or puppies that are very excited may be too excited to swallow drool and will start foaming at the mouth, according to veterinarian Jon Gellar, DVM, writing for DogChannel.com.

Poisoning

Frothing at the mouth is a common symptom of poisoning, including vomiting, diarrhea, shaking uncontrollably and losing coordination, according to "Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook."

Illness

If a dog does not normally foam at the mouth, the dog may have an illness such as rabies or canine epilepsy. This is an emergency, so contact a vet immediately.

Warning

If the froth is red, flecked with red or if the dog is pawing at the mouth, the dog may have injured the mouth or has a foreign object stuck in it, according to "The Veterinarians' Guide to Your Dog's Symptoms."

References

• "Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook"; Debra M. Eldredge, DVM, et al.; 2007
• "The Veterinarians' Guide to Your Dog's Symptoms"; Michael S. Garvey, DVM, et al.; 1999
• Dog Channel: Dog's Mouth Foaming During Play

Resources

• Dog Breed Info: Dogs that Drool or Slobber
• Two Dog Press: When Good Dogs Eat Bad Things
• Canine Epilepsy Network: Symptoms and Treatments